PBS, Local Political Leadership in Sabah

19 August 2025

KIULU: Sabah’s longest-surviving local party, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), is positioning itself as a catalyst for the revival and resilience of locally-based political parties in the state, drawing strength from its longstanding grassroots connection.

PBS Information Chief and Kiulu Division Chief, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, said the party’s unbroken record in the Kiulu constituency since 1985 reflects continued public confidence in the principles of local political struggle.

“As Sabah’s longest-standing local political party, PBS in Kiulu aims to inspire the resurgence of local parties’ dominance in the state,” he said, adding that PBS’s enduring presence is a sign of its continued relevance, with no intention of resting on its past achievements.

Speaking at the 40th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the division, Joniston reminded party members and supporters that PBS’s legacy is a call to remain attuned to the times, to listen to the voices of the people, and to stay firmly rooted in the party’s founding values.

PBS Secretary-General Datuk Julita Majungki officiated the AGM on behalf of Acting President Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

Also in attendance were Deputy Presidents Datuk Seri Jahid Jahim and Datuk Seri Dr Yee Moh Chai, Gagasan Rakyat Kiulu Division Head Datuk Janih Bangud, and Parti STAR Division Head Terrence Sinti.

Joniston, who also serves as the Kiulu Assemblyman, recalled that PBS President Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili once likened Kiulu’s steadfast grassroots support to the “Kiulu Charge” – a spirit that, he said, must now be infused with fresh ideas and broader inclusivity.

While he spoke from the perspective of Kiulu, Joniston emphasised that the same spirit is echoed across PBS divisions throughout Sabah.

He also underlined PBS’s role in the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition as more than just a supporting partner